An adventure mindset means being open to alter our plans. And, letting ourselves play! A step into the unknown becomes a tiny adventure. Here’s a story of simply stopping.
A Dinosaur? Hahaha!! What the heck?? Here I was – just driving down Route 130 on my way to Natural Bridge State Park, passing through Glasgow, Virginia.
My child-like heart suddenly kicked into gear. I had to stop!
I decided less than a week ago to take a tiny vacation to Lynchburg, Virginia. I just needed a break from Richmond, Virginia, and my (lovely) apartment after so much Covid-19 isolation.
My traditional family beach vacation was canceled. I needed to explore a new place! And, it needed to be solo.
My travel preference is to pick a place and reserve lodging. And, that’s all I plan. The rest I leave to the flow.
And, thus, I didn’t anticipate a day trip to Natural Bridge. For some reason, it popped into my head. How far is it from Lynchburg? One hour on the quick route, about 30 minutes longer on the back road.
Hmmm. I felt a bit lazy, but Natural Bridge had been on my mind. I am not sure exactly why. I could hear a friend (which one?) speaking in my head, talking about its wonder.
How could I waste this opportunity when Natural Bridge is so close? If I didn’t go, it would be a good 3+ hours from Richmond. So, I surrendered.
I started my happy drive to Natural Bridge. I often start a trip a bit anxious. I want to get through the first step or two in the directions.
Then, the release. A big breath, which signals the transition. Time to shift gears. A new openness kicks in. The freedom of exploration. And, a little song in my head. La la la …
Then, the reward. Today, it’s a Dinosaur. Really, just sitting on the right side of the road! Huge! I pull over and can’t prevent the smile breaking across my face. I’ve gotta pat this welcoming Dinosaur and say hello.
And, of course, the camera comes out.
Then, I focus across the road. Scotto’s Deli was packed with trucks in the parking lot. Obviously, a popular local place! So much for my little packed lunch. I can’t say no.
I walked in and ordered my favorite, an Italian sub. Apparently, the cheesesteak sandwich is the special, but I am a focused woman.
I chatted up Mike, the employee. He told me the story of the Dinosaur. A town resident designed fiberglass Dinosaurs and animals for golf courses and other places. And he is quite a jokester!
This guy loved April Fool’s Day. So, one year, he surprised the town with the mega Dinosaur, as well as several smaller ones.
Hahaha!!! Can you imagine? To this day, the folks at the next-door grocery mow the yard. The smaller dinosaurs are gone.
The restaurant had its share of locals eating inside and folks waiting for their take-out orders. Um, unfortunately, none of the customers were wearing a mask to protect me from Covid-19.
So, I decided to commune with the Dinosaur again. What is his name? I forgot to ask, but let’s call him Nessie.
I had such a good time hanging out with Nessie that I lost track of time. Mike yelled for me across the street – sub is ready! Ah, yay, I’m suddenly hungry. And, I can tell you – that sub was phenomenal. I ate half on my way to Natural Bridge.
Who knew? A Scottish Virginia town with its own Nessie from a jokester, with an Italian Sub.
Now, that is a tiny adventure! A new friendship with a Dinosaur while connecting with the locals.
Instead of merely driving by, I followed my happy spirit and stopped. Gotta be grateful for this surprise.
That's what it's all about.
